Stacking solutions protect Class A surfaces during shipping and handling. As car manufacturers strive to optimize production, these solutions offer a blend of efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
By minimizing waste and maximizing space, injection molded stacking solutions can seamlessly fit into high-demand production environments.
Injection molding has revolutionized automotive manufacturing, offering a powerful way to create durable and complex parts. With this technology, manufacturers can efficiently produce everything from tiny components to large panels with great precision.
Stacking columns improve how parts are stored, transported, and assembled by providing an organized and efficient system.
Injection-molded stacking columns have become a cornerstone in handling various car parts. They offer many advantages—from reducing production costs to enhancing the durability of the components in logistic operations.
Stacking columns in automotive manufacturing can be fully automatic systems, significantly increasing storage capacity while maintaining precise part separation. These columns are versatile and are used in various applications, including shipping racks, WIP (Work In Progress) racks, line-side buffering, and LCA (Line-side Carton Access) systems.
Typical applications for stacking columns include:
Vertical columns represent the most common application in stacking systems. They feature customizable designs tailored to maximize the number of parts per pack. Providers can customize the finger and pitch (the distance between fingers) to fit specific parts, and the locking mechanism of the fingers allows for full part containment. This ensures that parts remain secure during transport and storage, reducing the risk of damage.
Key features of vertical columns include:
Additionally, injection molded brush dunnage within these systems provides additional part stabilization, especially when carts are in motion. The manual locking mechanism allows for securing any quantity of partially loaded racks, which is particularly useful in flexible manufacturing environments.
Vertical columns are also applicable in AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) and cart applications, as well as pallet and shuttle conveyor systems, and they can feature latching styles that securely lock fingers in place.
Horizontal columns are typically used in walk-in racks, where parts are supported by urethane dunnage and lean against spring-loaded fingers. The pitch in horizontal columns can be adjusted to accommodate almost any part, offering significant versatility in manufacturing processes. The locking mechanism ensures full part containment, and these systems can be integrated into fully automated load/unload cells.
Key features of horizontal columns include:
Angular columns offer a unique opportunity to improve packing density by staggering parts within the stack. Like vertical and horizontal columns, the pitch can be customized, and the finger-locking mechanism ensures full part containment. These columns are also suitable for fully automated load/unload cells, making them ideal for high-volume production environments.
Key features of angular columns include:
LOTIS Technologies, a Vantage Plastics Family of Companies member, is a leader in delivering advanced stacking solutions tailored for the automotive industry and beyond. They leverage over 20 years of experience to customize stacking columns (available in injection molded, steel, aluminum, or composite materials) to your specific requirements. LOTIS specializes in injection molding, offering a wide range of capabilities, including:
These machines enable LOTIS to produce high-quality components like stacking columns, seat pallets, and custom dunnage with precision and efficiency. Additional services include expertise in design and prototyping.
At LOTIS, they focus on solving your packaging and manufacturing challenges with innovative, durable, and efficient solutions. Put their experience to the test and discover how they can contribute to your project’s success.